Let’s Talk About Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel
The Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel is a match-grade, drop-in replacement barrel designed to enhance the accuracy and performance of Glock 34 pistols. Manufactured by Rival Arms, this barrel boasts features like 6-groove rifling and construction from 416R stainless steel. Its target-crowned muzzle and individual hand inspection also contribute to its appeal.
I was looking to upgrade my Glock 34 for competitive shooting. I wanted a barrel that could noticeably improve my groupings and provide consistent performance.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the Rival Arms barrel’s fit and finish. The stainless steel looked clean and well-machined, and the barrel felt substantial in my hand.
Compared to other aftermarket barrels, I chose the Rival Arms for its reputation for quality and precision. It seemed like a good balance of performance and value, unlike some of the more expensive options on the market. My initial excitement was high, hoping it would live up to the claims of improved accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel at my local shooting range. I ran several drills at varying distances, focusing on accuracy and consistency.
The barrel performed admirably in dry conditions. The improved rifling seemed to help stabilize the bullets, and I noticed tighter groupings compared to the stock barrel.
The installation was straightforward, and the barrel dropped right into my Glock 34 Gen 4 without any gunsmithing. I quickly felt more confident with the pistol after getting used to the barrel.
The only surprise was a slight increase in recoil, likely due to the tighter tolerances of the Rival Arms barrel.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond the normal marks from usage.
Cleaning the barrel is a breeze. The stainless steel construction makes it easy to remove fouling and maintain optimal performance.
The Rival Arms barrel definitely outperforms my previous experiences with the stock Glock barrel. The improvement in accuracy is undeniable, making it a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel
Specifications
- The Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel is chambered in 9mm Luger, a common and readily available cartridge. This makes it easy to find ammunition for practice and competition.
- It weighs approximately 0.3 pounds, adding minimal weight to the pistol. This is important for maintaining balance and handling.
- The barrel length is 3.43 inches, designed as a drop-in replacement for Glock 34 models. Although the product description states 3.43 inches, it’s likely a typo and it should be longer to match the Glock 34 barrel which is normally over 5 inches.
- It is constructed from 416R stainless steel, known for its strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. This ensures a long service life and reliable performance.
- The barrel features a 1-10 twist rate, optimized for stabilizing common 9mm bullet weights. This contributes to improved accuracy and consistency.
- It also boasts 6-groove rifling, which enhances bullet spin and reduces friction. This is designed for achieving a tighter grouping.
- The finish is PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition), adding a layer of protection and a sleek appearance. This contributes to the barrel’s corrosion resistance.
- It is a non-threaded barrel. The lack of threads means it’s not designed for suppressors or other muzzle devices.
These specifications collectively contribute to the Rival Arms barrel’s enhanced performance. The combination of high-quality materials, precise rifling, and durable finish makes it a significant upgrade over a stock barrel.
Performance & Functionality
The Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel excels in delivering improved accuracy. Its tight tolerances and enhanced rifling create tighter groupings and more consistent shots.
The primary strength of this barrel lies in its accuracy and reliability. It consistently performs as expected, even after prolonged use.
One potential area for improvement is the barrel’s chamber. Some users might prefer a slightly tighter chamber for even greater accuracy, although this could affect reliability with certain ammunition types. Overall, it exceeds expectations for a drop-in barrel.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel is constructed from high-quality 416R stainless steel, giving it a solid feel and a premium appearance. Its weight is balanced, not adding excessive weight to the firearm.
The drop-in design is extremely user-friendly. No gunsmithing is required for installation, making it accessible to most Glock owners.
Durability & Maintenance
With its 416R stainless steel construction and PVD finish, the Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel is built to last. The barrel should withstand thousands of rounds with proper care and maintenance.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with standard gun cleaning supplies is sufficient to keep the barrel in excellent condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel does not come with any specific accessories. It’s a standalone drop-in replacement barrel.
Since it adheres to Glock factory specifications, it’s compatible with standard Glock 34 parts. Aftermarket guide rods and recoil springs can be used.
Pros and Cons of Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel
Pros
- Enhanced Accuracy: Tighter groupings and more consistent shots compared to stock barrels.
- Drop-In Installation: No gunsmithing required, easy for most users to install.
- Durable Construction: Made from 416R stainless steel with a PVD finish for longevity.
- Improved Corrosion Resistance: The stainless steel and PVD coating protect against rust and wear.
- Match-Grade Quality: Provides performance close to custom-fitted barrels at a fraction of the cost.
Cons
- Slightly Increased Recoil: Tighter tolerances may lead to a minor increase in perceived recoil.
- Potentially Incorrect Barrel Length Listed: The description states 3.43 inches which seems to be incorrect and misleading.
Who Should Buy Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel?
The Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel is perfect for competitive shooters seeking improved accuracy without extensive gunsmithing. It’s also ideal for Glock owners looking to upgrade their stock barrel for enhanced performance and durability.
Those primarily concerned with maintaining the lowest possible recoil should skip this product. If the budget allows, consider investing in a custom-fitted barrel for maximum accuracy gains.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality bore brush for effective cleaning. A good gun cleaning solvent is also crucial for maintaining optimal performance.
Conclusion on Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel
The Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel is a worthwhile upgrade for Glock 34 owners seeking improved accuracy and reliability. Its drop-in design and durable construction make it a practical and effective choice.
At $121.49, the price is justified considering the noticeable improvement in performance. It offers a great balance of quality and value.
I would definitely recommend this barrel to anyone looking to enhance their Glock 34’s accuracy. It’s a solid investment that delivers tangible results. If you’re serious about improving your shooting performance, consider upgrading to the Rival Arms Glock 34 Gen 3/4 V2 Pistol Barrel.